Environmental Sustainability Across BRICS Economies: the Dynamics Among the Digital Economy, Education, and CO₂ Emissions

One of the main issues the world currently faces is achieving steady economic growth without sacrificing environmental quality. The digital economy has emerged as a new economic form that supports the balance of economic and environmental sustainability. Nevertheless, studies of the nexus of the digital economy and environmental quality are scarce. This study focuses on BRICS countries’ environmental sustainability by exploring the relationship between the digital economy and CO₂ emissions using panel data from 2003 to 2021. It also examines the moderating effect of education on the nexus between the digital economy and CO₂ emissions. The findings from the advanced regression analysis show that the digital economy reduces CO₂ emissions and promotes environmental sustainability. Education, as a moderating variable, strengthens the relationship between the orderly development of the digital economy and the environment. These empirical findings will help BRICS countries interpret the potential role of the digital economy in mitigating environmental pollution. Furthermore, delineating the importance of education for strengthening the relationship between the digital economy and CO₂ emissions will guide policymakers in devising environmental impact policy. These results can provide ideas for BRICS countries to achieve sustainable environmental development.